Deep Purple Announce Two New Live Releases

A pair of Deep Purple's biggest recent live performances are being commemorated with two new concert recordings from the band.

The new releases, both scheduled to arrive Aug. 28, are titled From the Setting Sun ... (In Wacken) and ...To the Rising Sun (In Tokyo). Both titles will be available as two-CD/DVD or three-LP sets, and both are also accompanied by hi-def video options: From the Setting Sun ... (In Wacken) was filmed using nine HD cameras and will be released on Blu-ray 3D, while ...To the Rising Sun (In Tokyo) was filmed with 12 HD cameras, and will be released on Blu-ray. Pricing, track listings and pre-order information will be made available shortly.

The band has posted notes regarding both releases at its Facebook page, with bassist Roger Glover sharing memories from the shows. Of Deep Purple's performance at the 2013 Wacken Open Air Festival, he writes, "In the sunset, we were treated to a great welcome from the sea of tattoos and black leather facing us. Festival crowds are unique because most people are there for the occasion itself rather than for any particular band. For us that is always a welcome challenge and a chance to connect with many who may never have seen us before. But the real stars are all in the audience. Thank you, Wacken."

Turning to the Tokyo set, Glover writes, "We came in at the back door, climbed the cool, marble staircase and entered the familiar dressing room. Feeling like we're the only people in the building, it's hard to believe there's even an audience out there. But there is, young and old, sitting patiently or chatting quietly — the embodiment of civility. It's almost like the respectful hush one might find in a cathedral. But they're here to rock. And rock they do. They may be quiet while they're waiting but far from shy during the show. They gave us an unforgettable evening. Thank you, Tokyo."